As a Global Entry member, you enjoy the privilege of expedited customs and immigration processing when entering the United States. This convenience comes with the responsibility to follow U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations, including specific duty obligations. Failing to meet these obligations can lead to severe penalties, including the revocation of your Global Entry membership. At the National Security Law Firm (NSLF), we have extensive experience assisting clients who face these issues. In this guide, we’ll walk you through your duty obligations, common violations to avoid, and how to maintain your Global Entry status.

Understanding Duty Obligations as a Global Entry Member

Global Entry members, like all travelers, must comply with U.S. customs laws when bringing goods into the country. One of the most important aspects of this is adhering to duty obligations, which refer to taxes or tariffs imposed on certain goods imported into the U.S.

1. Duty-Free Exemptions

Global Entry members are entitled to certain duty-free exemptions, but the limits depend on the nature of the goods and how often you travel.

  • Personal Exemptions: U.S. residents can bring back up to $800 worth of goods duty-free, provided they’ve been abroad for at least 48 hours and haven’t used their exemption in the past 30 days. The exemption applies to items for personal use or gifts, but not items for resale.
  • Alcohol and Tobacco: Within your $800 exemption, you may include 1 liter of alcohol, 200 cigarettes, or 100 cigars. Any quantities exceeding these limits are subject to duty and taxes.

2. Declaring All Purchases

It is crucial to declare all items purchased abroad, regardless of their value or use. Failing to declare goods accurately is a common reason for Global Entry revocation.

  • What to Declare:
    • All items purchased abroad, whether for personal use, gifts, or resale.
    • Items you received as gifts or free samples.
    • Repairs or alterations made to goods while abroad.
  • How to Declare:

Common Violations and How to Avoid Them

While duty obligations may seem straightforward, even seasoned travelers can inadvertently violate customs laws. Here are some of the most common violations Global Entry members face, along with tips on how to avoid them.

1. Undervaluing or Misdeclaring Items

  • Violation: Declaring a lower value for goods purchased abroad or failing to declare items received as gifts or free samples.
  • How to Avoid: Always declare the full purchase price of items, including taxes and fees. For gifts or samples, declare their estimated market value.
  • Example: A traveler fails to declare a watch received as a gift, assuming it doesn’t need to be reported. This results in a customs violation, putting their Global Entry membership at risk.

2. Exceeding Duty-Free Exemptions Without Declaration

  • Violation: Bringing back more than the allowed amount of duty-free goods without declaring the excess.
  • How to Avoid: Stay within the $800 limit for goods, and if you exceed it, be prepared to declare the excess and pay any applicable duties.
  • Example: A traveler returns with $1,200 worth of souvenirs but fails to declare the extra $400 in goods. CBP discovers the discrepancy, leading to fines and the potential loss of Global Entry privileges.

3. Failing to Declare Agricultural Items

  • Violation: Bringing in prohibited or restricted fruits, vegetables, meats, or plants without declaring them. Agricultural products can carry pests or diseases harmful to U.S. agriculture.
  • How to Avoid: Before traveling, review the prohibited and restricted items list on the CBP website. Declare all agricultural products, even if you’re unsure about their admissibility.
  • Example: A traveler brings back fresh fruit from abroad, unaware that it’s prohibited. Failure to declare it results in its confiscation and a customs violation.

4. Bringing Prohibited Items

  • Violation: Importing items that are strictly prohibited, such as narcotics, certain firearms, or products made from endangered species.
  • How to Avoid: Familiarize yourself with the list of prohibited items before your trip. Do not bring in any items that are illegal or restricted unless you have the proper permits.
  • Example: A traveler unknowingly purchases a souvenir made from an endangered species. Without the proper documentation, this becomes a serious violation, risking fines, confiscation, and revocation of Global Entry.

See CBP Prohibited and Restricted Items and CBP Bringing Food Back Into the United States.

Maintaining Compliance as a Global Entry Member

To avoid the risk of penalties, fines, or Global Entry revocation, it’s essential to stay compliant with customs regulations. Here’s how you can protect your membership:

  • Regularly Review Regulations: Customs laws and regulations can change, so stay informed by regularly checking the CBP website for updates.
  • Be Honest and Transparent: Declare all items and provide accurate information to CBP officers. Transparency is key to protecting your Global Entry status.
  • Prepare Documentation: Keep receipts and documentation for all purchases, repairs, and alterations made abroad. This makes it easier to declare your items and avoid confusion.
  • Consult CBP Resources: Utilize CBP’s online resources and guides to ensure you are fully compliant with all customs and duty regulations.

Conclusion: Stay Informed and Compliant to Protect Your Global Entry Status

Being a Global Entry member comes with the benefit of saving time during international travel, but it also requires responsibility. By understanding and adhering to your duty obligations, you can maintain your membership and avoid costly penalties. Ensure that you declare all items, stay within duty-free limits, and are aware of prohibited items to enjoy seamless travel.

At National Security Law Firm, we have successfully helped clients who have faced Global Entry revocation due to customs violations. If you’re at risk of losing your membership or have already been denied, our experienced legal team can guide you through the appeals process and help you regain your Global Entry privileges.

Our Guaranteed Global Entry Appeal Service – Get Approved or Your Money Back!

At the National Security Law Firm, we understand how frustrating having your Global Entry denied or revoked can be. That’s why we offer our Guaranteed Global Entry Appeal Service—designed to relieve the stress, handle every step of the appeal, and get you approved quickly. When you choose us, you’re putting your case in the hands of seasoned experts with a track record of success in Global Entry appeals.

Here’s what our comprehensive service includes:

  • Guaranteed Approval or Your Money Back:
    We are confident in our ability to secure your Global Entry on appeal—we guarantee it. If we fail, we’ll refund your money in full—no questions asked. Your success is our priority.
  • Quick and Easy Onboarding:
    We respect your time. Our fast and straightforward electronic onboarding process takes less than 15 minutes. Once you’re on board, our experienced Global Entry lawyers handle everything, freeing you to focus on what matters most.
  • Complete Handling of Court Records:
    Don’t worry about gathering court documents—we’ve got you covered. Our team will track down and obtain any necessary court records for your appeal, ensuring everything is in order and saving you the hassle.
  • Expert Analysis of Your Denial:
    Unsure why your Global Entry was denied? Our team, with its deep experience in reviewing Security Threat Assessments (STAs) from years working for the government, will thoroughly analyze your case. 
  • Guidance Through the Interview and Renewal Process:
    Once your appeal is granted, we’ll continue to guide you through the Global Entry interview and renewal process, ensuring you’re fully prepared and know what to expect.
  • Insider Tips for Fast Interview Scheduling:
    We know how to get your Global Entry interview scheduled quickly and at a convenient location. Our insider knowledge will help you navigate the process smoothly and without delay.
  • All of this is available for a flat, all-inclusive fee of $2,995.
    No hidden charges, no surprises—just straightforward, experienced service from trusted Global Entry appeal lawyers.

With our Guaranteed Global Entry Appeal Service, you’re backed by a team of dedicated attorneys who know the process inside and out. Contact us today to get started!

*The use of the word “guaranteed” in attorney advertisements refers explicitly to a refund policy and does not imply a guarantee of any particular outcome in your legal case. Legal cases are inherently unpredictable, and the result of any legal matter cannot be assured. The National Security Law Firm guarantees that you will receive a full refund of our legal fee if you do not obtain Global Entry on appeal. This guarantee applies solely to the refund and not to the success or outcome of your case.

Get Professional Help and Stay Informed: Join Our Free “Ask a Global Entry Lawyer” Facebook Group!

Have you recently faced a denial or revocation of your Global Entry membership? The appeals process can be complex and overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. We invite you to join our “Ask a Global Entry Lawyer (Global Entry Q&A)” Facebook Group. In this dedicated space, you can get answers directly from experienced Global Entry lawyers and connect with others facing similar issues.

Why Join Our Facebook Group?

  • Experienced Legal Advice for Free: Our skilled Global Entry lawyers are here to provide you with valuable insights, answer your questions, and guide you through the appeal process.
  • Community Support: Connect with others who have gone through the same process. Share your experiences, learn from others’ stories, and get support from a community that understands your situation.
  • Stay Up-to-Date: Get the latest updates on Global Entry policies, appeal procedures, and best practices to increase your chances of success.
  • Easy Access: Simply join the group, post your questions, and get reliable advice from NSLF’s Global Entry lawyers. 

Don’t face your Global Entry appeal alone. Join our “Free Global Entry Q&A (Ask a Global Entry Lawyer)” Facebook Group now and get the professional guidance you need to navigate the process confidently.

Explore Our Comprehensive Global Entry Resources

At the National Security Law Firm, we believe in empowering our clients with the knowledge and guidance they need to navigate the complex world of Global Entry. Whether you’ve faced a denial, are confused about your eligibility, or want to know how to maximize your case, we’ve got you covered. Our Global Entry practice area page links to dozens of detailed articles and blogs designed to answer your questions and help you feel confident in every step of the process.

What You’ll Find in Our Resource Library:

  • Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Not sure where to start? Our FAQs cover everything from basic eligibility to what happens during the Global Entry interview. We break down common concerns and provide straightforward answers.
  • Maximizing Your Global Entry Case: Learn expert strategies to strengthen your appeal, avoid common mistakes, and increase your chances of success. Our guides walk you through how to prepare your documentation, handle criminal records, and more.
  • Understanding Your Denial: If your Global Entry was denied or revoked and you’re unsure why, we offer detailed resources to help you uncover the reasons and plan your next steps. Our blogs cover everything from criminal records to unexplained denials.

Our extensive collection of articles also covers specific issues like FOIA requests, traffic violations, customs violations, and Global Entry appeals. For a complete list of topics and resources, visit our Global Entry Appeals page and take advantage of the insights shared by our trusted team of Global Entry lawyers. 

Our blog posts provide valuable insights and practical advice to help you confidently navigate your Global Entry appeal. For personalized answers and additional guidance, don’t forget to join our “Free Global Entry Q&A (Ask a Global Entry Lawyer)” Facebook Group and connect with our experienced Global Entry lawyers today!

Why Trust the National Security Law Firm?

1. The Insider Advantage

The National Security Law Firm (NSLF) is led by Brett O’Brien, a former Intelligence Law attorney with the Army’s counterintelligence agency. NSLF’s Global Entry team is trusted by countless clients to secure Global Entry privileges for those who have been denied or had their membership revoked. Brett O’Brien developed NSLF’s Global Entry program based on his extensive experience conducting Security Threat Assessments (STAs) for the Army. Global Entry investigations are a type of Security Threat Assessment. Brett’s deep involvement in overseeing these investigations gives NSLF a unique and trusted insider advantage in handling Global Entry appeals.

Don’t make the mistake of trusting civilian lawyers who lack military or intelligence law expertise. They often miss the critical firsthand experience needed to conduct and review STAs for the government—knowledge that is essential for effectively representing you in your appeal or revocation. When you choose NSLF, you are placing your trust in a team with insider knowledge, a proven track record, and an unwavering commitment to securing the best possible outcome for you.

2. Guaranteed Results or Your Money Back

When you hire the National Security Law Firm for your Global Entry appeal or revocation, you can trust that you’re in the hands of experienced, results-driven attorneys. We are so confident in our ability to secure your Global Entry that we offer a guarantee: if we do not succeed in obtaining your Global Entry on appeal, we will refund your money in full. This guarantee reflects the trust we place in our team and our commitment to your success.

3. Trusted by Top Business Leaders

The National Security Law Firm is the nation’s original Global Entry law firm, trusted by top business leaders, CEOs, and executives from Fortune 500 companies and beyond. Our trusted reputation for success in Global Entry appeals makes us the go-to firm for those who cannot afford delays or mistakes.

By partnering with NSLF, you can trust us to handle the complex legal work involved in your Global Entry appeal, allowing you to focus on your business with confidence.

4. Glowing Reviews and Proven Success

Our clients consistently trust us to deliver results, and our track record speaks for itself. NSLF’s Global Entry lawyers have helped numerous clients secure their Global Entry status, and our glowing Google reviews are a testament to the success we’ve achieved. Clients across the nation praise our professionalism, dedication, and unmatched expertise, all of which contribute to our trusted reputation as one of the top Global Entry law firms.

5. The Five Pillars of Success


At NSLF, trust is at the core of everything we do. Our practice is built on our “Five Core Pillars of Success,” which reflect our military-inspired strategy, dedication, and precision in delivering the highest level of legal service. From how we hire and train our attorneys to how we handle every case, these principles are what our clients trust to set us apart from the competition. Visit our About Us page to learn more about the Five Pillars that define our trusted approach and commitment to our clients.

Enlist The National Security Law Firm: Secure Your Global Entry Status Today

When you choose The National Security Law Firm, you’re trusting a team that approaches every Global Entry appeal with the precision, strategy, and determination of an elite military unit. Our insider knowledge and relentless pursuit of success set us apart in helping clients regain their Global Entry privileges. We are committed to securing the best possible outcome for your case.

Take Action Now: Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and take the first critical step toward reclaiming your trusted traveler status. With our proven experience and commitment, we’ll guide you through every phase of the process.

Global Entry Appeals. Done Right.

Don’t wait—begin your Global Entry appeal today. Our onboarding process is fast and easy, and consultations are always free. Schedule your free consultation now and let our trusted team stand by your side in this important journey.

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